A band of doctors rock for charity

Watch out Weezer and Smashing Pumpkins. Help the Doctor, an indie rock band of doctors moonlighting as musicians, is generating buzz.

What began as a much-needed outlet from their demanding careers as surgeons has become a successful band with gigs at the Troubadour, The Roxy, The Viper Room, The Dragonfly, and a sold-out performance at the House of Blues.

The four surgeons met during their residency training at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center in 2011 and discovered a shared passion for music that started long before they became doctors. Coordinating practice time for four doctors can be challenging. Typically, they squeeze in jam sessions after full days of surgery. Dr. Kang says they “pick a night to practice and everyone shows up in scrubs.” “It’s not easy, but the end product has been well worth it!” Dr. Roostaeian says.

Help the Doctor has used its success to raise money for organizations like Facing Forward, which provides pro bono surgeries for kids with severe facial and skull deformities. “Being able to create music together is the fun part, but now having the opportunity to help raise money for charities has made it truly special for us,” Dr. Roostaeian says.

The group’s songs are available for download on iTunes and on their Facebook page, where they post upcoming concerts and stay connected to followers who include many UCLA doctors, nurses and staff.